Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, approximately 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. Since cooling and heating represent such a significant chunk of your utility bills, you'll want to make sure the HVAC system in your Mount Dora home is functioning optimally.
Our guide to Mount Dora's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on hvac companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:
If your HVAC system is faulty or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different maintenance services. Costs for some common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,880-$4,793 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,810-$7,019 | |
Heat Pump | $2,950-$30,060 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $247-$411 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $62-$165 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,234-$3,703 | |
Thermostat Repair | $82-$206 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $395-$987 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the kind of equipment they plan to work with). Section 608 certification is required for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." All other licensing requirements are handled at the state level.
HVAC contractors in Florida must be certified or registered with the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Certified HVAC contractors need to have four years of experience, pass an exam, and carry HVAC business insurance. Registered HVAC contractors are only approved to work in one specific city, and the local government sets licensing requirements. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Look for a a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new brand, estimated installation time, model, features, and energy efficiency. Before work starts, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a fair cost.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work begins. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, like strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally gets the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to keep your home cool. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any leaks around your doors and windows to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes roughly one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this might take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be determined by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician discovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Mount Dora, you may be able to make do with a furnace on the lower end of this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Mount Dora, you'll likely need a unit on the higher end of this range. Generally, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Usually, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you could consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to find out what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: